Everytime crude oil prices have increased, I've taken it in stride. I've even been optimistic that higher fuel prices would mean more environmentally responsible auto choices and reduced energy consumption.

At the same time, I've felt sorry for all the Americans who cannot absorb the added expense. In this region ,the outlying counties have a lot of poverty but don't have mass transit systems. And we all know of people who commute from as far away as Panacea, Perry or Bainbridge GA for low-paying state jobs in Tallahassee. Having worked with impoverished families, it's not a vague concept for me. I associate names and faces with the hardships caused by increased gas prices and the high grocery prices they contribute to, and it saddens me.

But now I'm mad. This week the big oil companies announced their first-quarter earnings, and the numbers are flabbergasting! Exxon Mobil's profits are up 17% compared to first quarter 2007. Chevron's profits are up 10%. BP's profits are up 63%.